Frequently Asked Questions about Samburu national reserve : As tourists plan their Kenya safari to Samburu national reserve, there are a number of questions asked. This article features commonly asked questions by visitors regards a safari to Samburu national reserve.
Where is Samburu National Reserve?
Samburu national reserve is a rewarding Kenya wildlife safari destination located in Northern Kenya along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in Kenya, East Africa.
Samburu national reserve covers approximately 165 square kilometers bordering the Buffalo Springs and Shaba National reserve, this reserve is situated in the semi – desert region with Ewaso Ng’iro as the permanent water source in the whole ecosystem.
Samburu national reserve is famously known for its Samburu Special Five that is Grevy’s zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk and the Beisa Oryx. These Unique wildlife species are only found in Samburu national reserve and are easily encountered while on game drives.
What is the best time to visit Samburu?
Samburu National Reserve is a year round destination and this is because of its ideal climate and abundant resident wildlife for excellent game viewing, however the best the time of the year for game viewing is during the dry season from Late June to October. In this period, the vegetation is thinner and the animals are easily seen as they congregate at the banks of the Ewaso Nyi’ro River which is the permanent water source in the region.
Do I need a Visa to enter Kenya?
Yes, you need a Visa to enter Kenya and also visit Samburu national reserve, before arrival in Kenya or start of the safari. Visitors are required to acquire visas which are obtained and issued electronically.
As a tourist, you can apply for single entry and transit Visa on the Kenya Visa official website – https://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html
Is it safe to visit Samburu?
Samburu national reserve is a safe Kenya wildlife destination, Kenya as a country is one of the safest nations in East and central Africa and because of the safety, the country hosts many global UN bodies, regional Embassies and International companies which have been opened in Nairobi as their headquarters for the Africa region.
National parks and reserves in Kenya including Samburu national reserve are managed professionally with adequate security in place, in these parks safety is bolstered and this is because they are situated away from urban areas.
In terms of safety from animals, incidents of wildlife attacks on visitors to visitors is very rare, accommodation facilities (camps and lodges) in Samburu national reserve have night guards who patrol the property and keep the vicinity safe.
During the game viewing expeditions or walking safari in Samburu national reserve, you are accompanied and lead by safari driver-guide who will guide you on how to approach to the wildlife in the safest way to explore the reserve.
How much is it to enter the Samburu?
Park entrance fees to non-residents to Samburu national reserve is currently USD 70 per adult and USD 40 per child for 24 hours. For Residents, entry fees are KES 300 per child or students for 24 hours.
Vehicle entry fees
- Vehicles with 6 seats and under – KES 400 per 24 hours
- Vehicles for 6-12 seats – KES 1000 per 24 hours
Can a child come on a safari?
Yes, a child can come on a safari to Samburu national reserve since there is no age limit.
What equipment should I bring?
While traveling to Samburu national reserve for a safari, the most important items that you must remember to include in your packing list include
- Camera
- Binoculars
- spare memory cards
- spare camera battery as
- a flash light or a torch.
Is there mobile network coverage at Samburu?
Yes there is mobile network coverage at Samburu national reserve for both Safaricom and Airtel, some accommodation options that is lodges and camps have complimentary WI-FI and computer for the guests to use.
How many days do you need in Samburu?
To enjoy your safari to Samburu national reserve to the fullest, ideally a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights is perfectly okay. This gives you enough time to explore the reserve and view a variety of wildlife and sceneries in the park.
What activities can I expect to do?
Samburu national reserve, Kenya safari activities you will enjoy doing include
- Game Drives
- Camel Trekking Safaris
- Samburu Village Tours
- Nature & Bush Walk
- Picnics in the wild
- Bush meals and sundowners
